Diabetic Nerve Disease Diet

Total CaloriesYour daily intake of calories should allow you to maintain a healthy weight. Total calorie requirements vary according to your weight, height and activity. Your doctor and dietitian will recommend a total daily calorie requirement that is right for you.

CarbohydratesCarbohydrates should account for 55-60% of your total calories. Carbohydrates include sugars, starches, and fiber. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and fiber, are better sources of carbohydrate than sugars. Dietary fiber has been shown to prevent constipation, reduce the risk of colon cancer and reduce cholesterol levels. A healthy diet contains 20-35 grams of fiber per day.

ProteinProtein should account for 10-20% of your total calories. Those who have normal kidneys should consume about 50 to 60 grams of protein per day. Those who have kidney disease should consume no more than 45 grams of protein per day.

Total FatFat should account for less than 30% of your total calories. Consume only unsaturated fats that are low in cholesterol. About 10% to 15% of your total calories should be in the form of monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, canola oil and peanut oil. Cholesterol intake should be limited to less than 300 milligrams per day.

Urine Testing for KetonesIn the past, urine testing was very useful and important. With the advent of rapid blood sugar testing, urine testing is usually not necessary. The main reason to perform this test is to check for early ketoacidosis. Small or trace ketones may mean nothing or represent the beginning of ketoacidosis. If you find this result, then perform the ketone test again in several hours. Notify your physician immediately if you discover moderate to large ketones present in your urine.